PORTLAND — Mayo Street Arts, in partnership with FLOR, presents “Flamenco on Film: La Singla” on Saturday, Jan. 18 beginning at 5 p.m. with doors opening at 4:30 p.m.
This special evening combines a documentary film screening, post-film Q&A and a shared culinary experience celebrating flamenco culture. Tapas will be served starting at 5 p.m. followed by the 95-minute film screening at 5:45 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, with pay-what-you-can options available to ensure accessibility.
“La Singla”, directed by Paloma Zapata, is an award-winning documentary that uncovers the extraordinary and largely forgotten story of Antonia Singla, one of the most mesmerizing flamenco dancers in history. Born deaf to a Romani family outside Barcelona, La Singla rose to international fame as a teenager, touring Europe alongside a young Paco de Lucía and sharing stages with icons such as Ella Fitzgerald. Dancing without hearing the music, her revolutionary rhythm, expression, and intensity captivated audiences worldwide — until she vanished abruptly at the height of her career, leaving behind a haunting mystery and a fragmented archival legacy.
More than a music documentary, “La Singla” is a deeply human story that explores resilience, identity and the psychological impact of abuse, presented with sensitivity and without graphic content. Through a powerful blend of archival footage, evocative sound design, and contemporary investigation, Zapata follows a single driving question: what happened to La Singla, and what truths can finally be told in her own voice? The film is presented in Spanish with English subtitles and is recommended for mature audiences due to its themes.
Following the screening, audiences are invited to remain for a Q&A discussion with FLOR Director Lindsey Bourassa and FLOR Chair María Mazorra, offering deeper insight into the film and the rich cultural traditions of flamenco. Tapas are included with admission, with wine and additional beverages available for purchase at the bar. This immersive evening promises to be a moving and inspiring exploration of flamenco, film, and the enduring power of an artist who danced to the beat of her own drum.
For ticket information visit the event page here.
Mayo Street Arts is a welcoming community arts center in the heart of Portland’s Kennedy Park neighborhood. The organization’s building serves as a performance venue, gallery and gathering space, and offers affordable studios and rehearsal space for artists. Mayo Street Arts’ programming embraces variety, with a particular focus on puppetry and folk music and dance.
Mayo Street Arts does not turn anyone away from its events for lack of funds; please contact the organization at 207-879-4629 or info@mayostreetarts.org for information on their pay-what-you-can admission policy. For more information and tickets, visit www.mayostreetarts.org.